Data & AI Director

Tandemsearch; Dubai; On-site; AED 550,000 - 735,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading consulting firm in Dubai is seeking an experienced Director to join its Data & AI practice. The successful candidate will leverage over 15 years of consulting and technology experience to lead client engagements, drive business development, and mentor teams. Strong expertise in data platforms and governance, along with significant experience in client delivery and business growth is essential. This is a strategic role that offers a partner-track opportunity with substantial influence in the firm's future.

Qualifications

• 15+ years of experience in consulting, technology, or digital transformation.
• At least 8 years focused on data, analytics, and AI.
• Proven track record of leading data & AI engagements across industries.

Responsibilities

• Lead large, complex engagements across data strategy and AI adoption.
• Drive go-to-market initiatives for Data & AI services.
• Build strong client relationships with CxO and Board-level stakeholders.

Skills

Data platforms and engineering

Advanced analytics

Machine learning

AI / LLM solutions

Data governance

Regulatory compliance

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science

MBA or Master's preferred

Tools

Azure

AWS

GCP

Job description

Role Overview

Our client is seeking an experienced Director to join our Data & AI practice, working with global and regional clients to unlock the value of data, analytics, and artificial intelligence. As a Director, you will play a pivotal role in leading client engagements, driving business development, and shaping the firm’s Data & AI offerings.

You will be responsible for delivering large-scale transformation programs, advising C-suite executives on AI strategy and adoption, and mentoring high-performing teams. This role is a Partner-track opportunity for a leader who can combine technical expertise, commercial acumen, and strategic vision to expand the firm’s footprint in this fast-evolving domain.

Responsibilities

Client Delivery

• Lead large, complex engagements across data strategy, AI adoption, cloud platforms, machine learning, and advanced analytics.
• Advise clients on data monetization, operating models, AI governance, and emerging technologies (LLMs, generative AI, automation).
• Oversee delivery excellence by managing cross-functional teams and ensuring high client satisfaction.

Business Development

• Drive go-to-market initiatives for Data & AI services, developing new offerings and propositions.
• Build strong client relationships with CxO and Board-level stakeholders, positioning the firm as a trusted advisor.
• Originate and convert opportunities into multi-million-dollar consulting engagements.
• Support the growth of the Data & AI practice by scaling capabilities, frameworks, and delivery models.
• Mentor and coach managers and senior managers, developing the next generation of leaders.
• Contribute to thought leadership by publishing insights, participating in industry forums, and representing the firm externally.

Qualifications & Experience

15+ years of professional experience in consulting, technology, or digital transformation, with at least 8 years focused on data, analytics, and AI.

Proven track record of leading data & AI engagements at scale across industries such as financial services, energy, healthcare, government, or consumer.

Strong expertise in :

• Data platforms and engineering (Azure, AWS, GCP).
• Advanced analytics, machine learning, and AI / LLM solutions.
• Data governance, ethics, and regulatory compliance.

Experience in business development, including pipeline management, proposals, and closing $5M+ annual sales.

Strong network with senior business and technology leaders in the Middle East (preferred).

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Data Science, or related field; MBA or Master’s preferred.